Can’t allow Indian system of medicine in military

Defence Minister AK Antony on Wednesday ruled out introduction of Indian systems of medicine in the Armed forces saying the Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS) system is based on the allopathic system of medicine.

Replying to a question by BJP MP Chandan Mitra in the Rajya Sabha, the Minister said in a written reply that the feasibility of introduction of the Indian systems of medicine in the armed forces was repeatedly studied by various committees and they did not recommend their inclusion. 

Mitra had asked whether Indian systems of medicine have not been introduced in the armed forces and the scientific reasons for not including these systems besides steps taken by the Government to reimburse expenses on Ayurvedic treatment of the army personnel who opt for this system.

Antonysaid combat medical and surgical requirements are the pivot on which the structure of the AFMS revolve.

He also said the Government has not taken steps to reimburse expenses for Indian systems. The AFMS is responsible for providing comprehensive medical care to Services personnel.

This question came in the backdrop of the Army disallowing reimbursement of Ayurvedic treatment of PV Manesh, a National Security Guard (NSG) commando who was wounded during the firefight with terrorists in the 26/11 Mumbai terror carnage.  Manesh was awarded Shaurya Chakra for his act of bravery.

Manesh was in coma for six months after he was hit by a grenade and discharged from the Army hospital with left side fully paralysed. He then underwent Ayurveda treatment and recovered.  He is currently incurring an expense of `5,000 on Ayurvedic treatment per month and has sought reimbursement from the Army. The Army has refused it saying Ayurveda is not approved under the defence medical system.